The Earth’s environment is the source of economic, social, cultural activities, with nature shaping human life over the centuries. The rapid growth in the world population, from 1 billion in 1830 to 7 billion today, add pressures for air quality, oceans, land use and resources as basic as water. Awareness is building about over-reliance on fossil fuels, how carbon and other emissions contribute to global warming and volatile weather. Every industry requires energy, and cross-border industrialization, transportation and other economic activities contribute to environmental degradation. Yet globalization also spurs awareness and activism over the need for global cooperation and standards to promote sustainability and environmental protection.

Of Climate and Political Change

India’s political leaders take a wait-and-see attitude on climate change
Nayan Chanda
April 3, 2014

How We Can Manufacture Forests Like Toyota Makes Cars

Cities can make room for more trees
Marcus Wohlsen
April 2, 2014

United Nations: Climate Impacts “Overwhelming”

Ignorance is no longer an excuse
Matt McGrath
March 31, 2014

Are Big, Rich Cities Greener Than Poor Ones?

New urban data sets offer surprising clues
March 17, 2014

How to Save the Shale Revolution

US fracking escaped federal review; to prevent bans, industry could pursue regulation
Robert A. Manning
March 11, 2014